The State News presents five things going on in the world of pop culture that might make your life a little bit better.

1. "Be Without You," the new single from Mary J. Blige's seventh album, "The Breakthrough." The queen of hip-hop soul retains her crown with this mid-tempo groove, which has an old-school R&B vibe and lyrics true to Blige — straight to the point. Blige sings, "Call the radio if you just can't be without your baby;" Blige fans should call the radio and request this joint as many times as they can.

2. "Amazing Peace," a new poem from legend — and 2005 spring commencement speaker — Maya Angelou. Angelou read the Christmas poem at the lighting of the National Christmas Tree on Dec. 1. Available at most bookstores, it'll make for a good gift.

3. For those hankering a special holiday shake, but can't wait for St. Patrick's Day, try the egg nog shake at McDonald's. Get them while they last — historically, special offers at McDonald's tend not to last. As of now, the Okemos location at 2040 W. Grand River Ave. (near Meridian Mall), the location nearest Frandor Shopping Center, and of course, the one on Grand River Avenue here in East Lansing all have the tasty delicacies in stock.

4. Giving the middle finger to the end of the year as always, Comedy Central presents "Last Laugh '05" at 9 p.m. on Sunday. With a slew of raunchy comics, it should turn out a bit edgier — and funnier — than VH1's "Big in '05."

5. You know that poster with the two girls making out in their underwear? The people at Reality Bedding decided to capitalize on that cult-status poster, as well as several others, and print them on — what else? — bedding. The Web site www.realitybedding.com offers a line of comforters with the images, and even if the $115 price tag is a bit much to swing, it's always nice to imagine sleeping under the provocative image.